Electrical vs. Computer engineering

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering (EE) versus Computer Engineering (CE) at the undergraduate level. Participants explore the implications of each choice on future opportunities, specialization, and curriculum similarities, while seeking advice on which path may be more beneficial.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a preference for EE, suggesting it opens more opportunities and allows for a later transition to computer engineering at the master's level.
  • Another participant notes that the first two years of study for both degrees are likely to be similar, implying that switching majors may be feasible.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of reviewing course requirements for both degrees, highlighting that CE may focus more on programming while EE covers a broader range of topics.
  • There is a suggestion that if one is certain about entering the computer industry, CE may be the better choice, whereas EE may be preferable for those uncertain about their career path.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the merits of each degree, with no clear consensus reached. Some advocate for EE due to its broader scope, while others see value in the specialization offered by CE.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention that curricula may vary by university, and the discussion does not resolve the specific advantages or disadvantages of each degree, leaving room for individual interpretation based on personal interests and career goals.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a career in engineering, particularly those weighing the options between Electrical and Computer Engineering, may find this discussion relevant.

sps37
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
So I got accepted into engineering, which is just general engineering first year. However the university has asked me for my preferred discipline now, and I was about to put computer engineering. The thing is, i heard that taking electrical engineering as an undergrad degree is a better option because i can decide to do masters in computer later on. On the other hand, doing an undergraduate degree in computer engineering would be cool but it feels too specialized for me.

Basically what I'm saying is that electrical engineering seems like it opens much more opportunities, while computer engineering is more "restricted".

So any advice? thanks in advance :)

Also: could you possibly list some advantages to both degrees, basically a comparison. Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
For the first 2 years the curricula will probably be very similar. You'll also probably be able to switch your major between the two of them quite easily. Why don't you look through the suggested course of study or sample degree track and see what classes look more interesting to you?
 
id say go for EE
 
Could you possibly tell me why you think i should go EE? Thanks for answering.
 
fss said:
For the first 2 years the curricula will probably be very similar. You'll also probably be able to switch your major between the two of them quite easily. Why don't you look through the suggested course of study or sample degree track and see what classes look more interesting to you?

+1

You should definitely look at at the course requirements for each degree and compare them. I know at my university the only difference is that Computer Engineers take more programming courses, like operating system programming, where EE's take many courses in various fields, computers, control, communications, E&M, etc...

I'm an EE so I'm kind of biased to say do an EE. Unless your 100% sure you want to get into the computer industry, then your best bet is to go CE.
If you do EE then you can learn the basics of many fields and have more options when you go out into industry and try to get a job.

So in short:
You know you want to be a working in the computer industry: Go CE
You have no idea where you want to go for sure: Go EE
 

Similar threads

Studying Should I take up electrical engineering or computer science?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
Is electrical engineering a good major for machine learning/AI jobs?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
Courses Help choosing modules for electrical engineer - electronics degree
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Studying Should I pursue a masters degree after 4.5 years working in IT?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Other After an Engineering Physics BSc, can I enroll in a Physics MSc?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Other Masters in Physics after working in Engineering
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Programs Trying to decide what program to study (physics or engineering)
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Considering Switching from Physics to Computer Engineering
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Other Master's degree advice to work in the Space Industry
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Programs Engineering Triple Major (Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Science)
  • · Replies 23 ·
Replies
23
Views
7K